If your older children or teens get cramps or muscle spasms, the reason may be lack of water, calcium, magnesium or potassium after strenuous activity. Eating foods like bananas and oranges, high in these minerals is helpful. Anyone participating in hardy activities outdoors should stay well hydrated in the heat. Regular ingestion of water and power drinks are quite beneficial.

Rather than popping over the counter pain relievers that can cause stomach problems overtime, try some natural products such as Arnica by rubbing it into the painful area. Never use eucalyptus oil full strength on your skin because the oils can be irritating. The oils should be diluted. Honey and vinegar in equal parts make a drink that is reported to help deposit calcium in the bloodstream. A long, hot soaking bath is often recommended for muscle cramps followed by a cool bath before bedtime. Many people throw fresh garden thyme into the water. Fennel oil can also be used to massage cramping muscles.

Menstrual cramps can be soothed by a tea made of chamomile or red raspberry leaves. You might want to use a large beanbag filled with rice or small beans that can be warmed in the microwave. Add some lavender to the bag before sewing it up for a relaxing aroma. A tea made from silverweed, balm leaves and chamomile leaves sweetened with honey is also good for relief of cramps. Feverfew, lady's mantle, and ginkgo are also used for cramps. Mint is soothing to stomach cramping and is recommended by some for flatulent colic in babies. However, herbals should be carefully researched before using on young children and anyone who is pregnant. Always consult your doctor before trying herbal treatments as some herbals may be contraindicative with other medications being taken.